28 Sacred Groves to be protected

Kochi: In an effort at protecting and
preserving them, 28 `Kavus` (sacred Groves) in Kerala would
be brought under a Centrally Sponsored scheme.

Rapid urbanisation and a steadily growing population have
placed these `kavus`, which are oasis of biodiversity, under
tremendous pressure. Apart from bio diversity, the `kavus`
provide habitat to animals and birds, including snakes.

Kerala Forest Minister, Binoy Vishwam, will inaugurate the
state level launch of the scheme-- Intensification of Forest
Management-Protection and Conservation of Sacred Groves on Apr
23 at Iringole Kavu at Perumbavoor in Ernakulam, Assistant
Conservator of Forests, Sujit R, told reporters here

During the first year, the 28 `kavus` belonging to
Devaswoms and Trusts would be protected. Another set of
`kavus` would be selected for protection in the coming two
years, he said.

The scheme supports protection and conservation efforts.

Inventory of sacred groves, Documentation of Flora and
fauns of each sacred grove, Preparation of Management plan,
lebelling of important species and signages, Cultural
operations including weeding, Improvement of Footpaths, Laying
of Eco trials are among the works supported by the central
government, he said.

An Expert committee of the Kerala Forest Department
scrutinised the proposals and selected the sacred groves. The
owners of the groves would be entering into an agreement with
the forest department and prepare and submit a detailed
management plan through the ACF before releasing funds for
undertaking activities in the Management Plan.

The Union Government has recently released Rs 13.2 lakh for
the scheme.